*Parties for ages 4 and 5 will feature an 80 minute tour and 40 minute room rental.**Your child will choose a favorite shelter animal to showcase and receive a special thank you packet for helping a furry friend find a home.

What do the mock adoption plush animals look like?Mock adoption includes life-like 12" plush cat or dog for the birthday child and 8" plush cat or dog for guests.

How much does an ARF birthday party cost?ARF's party packages are $345 for up to 15 children. A $20 fee will apply for each child over the party minimum, and adults are welcome at no charge. For parties with two birthday children that require an additional 12" plush animal, a $12 fee will be applied to the balance. Fully participating siblings will be treated as party guests. If a sibling does not wish to participate but would like to receive a party favor, a $10 fee will apply. Children participating in the party who leave early or arrive late will be included in the total headcount and the standard fee will apply. Program fees help support ARF's life-saving programs.

How do I reserve a party time/date?A $200 deposit is required to reserve a date, which will be applied to the balance due at the conclusion of the party. The deposit will be forfeited if the party is cancelled or changed within 3 weeks of the event.

What is your cancellation/change policy?The $200 deposit will be forfeited if the party is cancelled within 3 weeks of the event. If you wish to change the date of your party within 3 weeks of the original date, the deposit will be forfeited. You may work with us to reserve another party date, but you will need to provide an additional deposit payment. Our staff team is happy to work with you at no charge for cancellations or changes made more than 3 weeks from the party date.

How many guests may I invite?ARF party packages include up to 15 children, including the birthday child. If you would like to invite additional guests, our rental space can accommodate up to 24 children. Additional charges will apply.

Can parents stay during the party?An adult must be present at every party. Parents of guests over the age of 3 are not required to stay after dropping off their children. While we encourage family members to participate in the tour, we recommend that remaining adults tour the adoption center on their own to avoid overcrowding and noise. A parent must remain at all times with any child 2 years of age and younger.

Will I have time to set up the room before the party? You are welcome to arrive 30 minutes before the party to set up the room. You will also have 15 minutes after the party to pack up your items. ARF staff will take care of cleaning the room. The room must be vacated within the allotted time or late fees may apply.

Will ARF staff be available to help with set-up and clean-up?Yes! Your party docent will be available to assist with set-up and will take care of clean-up once the room is cleared. If you need additional help during your 30 minute room rental at the end of the party, please let your docent know at the beginning of the party. Otherwise, the docent will check in periodically throughout the 30 minutes.

How many tables are in the room and what are the dimensions? Is tableware provided?There are four 6" rectangles (with six stools each) and two 6" rectangles for cake, food and gifts. Tablecloths and tableware are not included.

Does ARF provide freezer space for ice cream or frozen desserts?Freezer or refrigerator space may be available but is not guaranteed. Please call ahead if space is required.

In lieu of gifts, may we ask for donations to the shelter?Of course! Guests can view our wish list or make monetary donations in honor of the birthday child by visiting www.arflife.org/honor. View our current wish list.